Each January, our newspaper publishes an historical fiction serial story in the annual Newspapers In Education project, Reading Across Missouri. The project, inspired by NEA’s Read Across America campaign, engages children inside their community newspaper—learning a little about Missouri history while improving their reading skills and connecting to their communities.

This year, well-known Missourians will read aloud each chapter of the story, “Three Generals,” and as the News Tribune will publish the serial, children across the state will be able to access the audio files online at http://newstribune.com/podcasts/three-generals/ and read along. Among the readers are Missouri Governor Jay Nixon, U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill, U.S. Senator Roy Blunt, University of Missouri Chancellor Brady Deaton, U.S. Silver Olympic Medalist Christian Cantwell, former U.S. Congressman Ike Skelton, Missouri National Guard Major General Stephen Danner and story author Kay Hively.

The Reading Across Missouri 2011 story, “Three Generals,” introduces young readers to three men, John J. Pershing, Maxwell D. Taylor and Omar N. Bradley, who had significant roles in two world wars and all hailed from Missouri. Inspired by these three famous American generals, the two main characters learn that no matter where they live, boys and girls can achieve great success through hard work and a belief in their own dreams.

The story is eight chapters and is provided at no cost. A companion teacher guide, correlated to Missouri’s learning standards, also is available at no charge. Find it at www.mnea.org.